The 2021 Ford Explorer's #16 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Ford Explorer has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good cargo capacity Powerful engines Plenty of features Composed ride and handling
Cons Low-rent interior Second- and third-row seats less comfortable than in rivals Upgraded infotainment system not much of an upgrade
For 2021 New Sport Appearance package available on XLT trim.More affordable version of the Explorer ST debuts..Platinum trim is now available for the Hybrid model.New off-road-themed Timberline debuts midway through the model year.
Pros Strong engines for quick acceleration Rear-wheel-drive platform improves handling and towing Roomy cargo area
Cons Too much wind noise at highway speeds The price can get frighteningly expensive in a hurry Lackluster interior material quality
Ford has made a few tweaks to its mid-size crossover for 2021, such as making heated seats standard on the XLT, offering a heated steering wheel as an optional feature on that model, and including an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger's seat on the Limited, ST, and Platinum models. A Sport Appearance package is now available on the XLT trim, and it includes 20-inch aluminum wheels that are coated in Carbonized Gray paint.A high-end King Ranch trim joins the lineup and features unique mahogany-colored leather upholstery.
Pros Smooth and controlled ride, cargo friendly interior design, comfortable front seats.
Cons Third row space is tight, plasticky interior bits, most desirable models are pricey.
The 2019 Cadillac XT5 ranked #20 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Cadillac XT5 has a score of 7.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 31 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Low base price Classic, elegant cabin Smooth ride
Cons Uninspired handling
The XT5's wireless smartphone charging pad gets an upgrade for 2019 and now offers 15 watts of juice (versus last year's 5 watts) to speed charging times. Other changes are limited to four new colors—Shadow Metallic, Red Horizon Tintcoat, Dark Mocha Metallic, and Manhattan Noir Metallic—and a new Kona Brown leather interior with Sapele wood trim.
Pros Quiet interior, distinctive exterior styling, spacious cargo bay.
Cons Somewhat gruff V-6 powertrain, muddled driving dynamics, busy interior design.
The 2019 Cadillac XT5 is a solid, if forgettable, crossover. Consider the Caddy’s myriad rivals, too.
Pros Comfortable ride Strong V-6 power Luxurious interior with right options Low base price...
Cons … that can climb quickly Light on personality Front-wheel drive model a bore Infotainment can frustrate
